National Theatre - Olivier London
National Theatre - Olivier Tickets
What’s On at National Theatre - Olivier
Events at the National Theatre’s Olivier stage are a varied and exciting bunch, with musicals, plays and new writing all available to book. This Christmas, a show for the whole family takes over on the South Bank as the Ballet Shoes play pirouettes into town! Based on Noel Streatfeild’s novel about three sisters who have big dreams, this is a sparkling re-imagining that combines the nostalgia of the classic story with the excitement of a dynamic new production. Take your kids, your nan and everyone in between for an uplifting theatre experience. It brings the 2024 season to an end with a flourish, and in 2025 is followed by the return of Olivier Award-winning playwright James Graham’s football drama Dear England.
About the National Theatre - Olivier
The Olivier Theatre is the largest of the three stages within the National Theatre complex on London’s South Bank; its sister stages are the mid-sized Lyttelton Theatre and smaller Dorfman Theatre. The complex is a bold, concrete construction that incorporates elements of Brutalist architecture and industrial 1960s design. The Olivier is named after the National Theatre’s first Artistic Director, legendary stage and screen actor Laurence Olivier. Olivier himself directed the first production to open the National Theatre; Hamlet starring Peter O’Toole in the title role.
The Olivier is unique in its use of the ‘drum revolve’, a giant rotating stage with elevators that allows complicated pieces of scenery to be erected on the stage within seconds and creates breath-taking set pieces to enhance each production.
In recent years the Olivier has hosted productions including War Horse, Danny Boyle’s re-imagining of Frankenstein starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller, Richard Bean’s One Man, Two Guvnors starring James Corden and Anaïs Mitchell's musical Hadestown, all of which met with great critical acclaim.
Map and Address
National Theatre, Upper Ground, South Bank, London, SE1 9PX
The Olivier Theatre is the largest of the three venues in the National Theatre. Nearby, you can find tourist attractions such as the South Bank, London Eye, London Dungeon, Sea Life Centre, and cultural institutions such as the BFI and Southbank Centre. A wide, pedestrianized walkway runs along this part of the River Thames, where many people enjoy scenic views of Central London. There are plenty of indoor and outdoor bars, restaurants and cafes in the area. It is advised to check www.tfl.gov.uk before embarking on your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Olivier Theatre box office open?
The box office in the entrance foyer of the National Theatre opens from 9:30am on Monday - Saturday and remains open until 11pm, when the building closes. Tickets can be collected here or booked for future performances.
Ticket collection for shows at the Olivier is available around one hour before the performance starts at the box office on the second floor foyer of the National Theatre building. We recommend that patrons arrive as early as possible to avoid queues and allow enough time to enter the auditorium. Please ensure to bring your confirmation email and your ID.
Ticket collection for shows at the Olivier is available around one hour before the performance starts at the box office on the second floor foyer of the National Theatre building. We recommend that patrons arrive as early as possible to avoid queues and allow enough time to enter the auditorium. Please ensure to bring your confirmation email and your ID.
What time does the Olivier Theatre open for a show?
The theatre opens around 30 minutes before the show starts but there are many communal seating areas inside the wider venue complex if you arrive early, and a bookshop to browse playtexts and souvenirs.
What food and drink are available at the Olivier Theatre?
From a quick coffee at the Espresso Bar and a delicious burger at the Kitchen Cafe, to a pre-show fine dining experience at House Restaurant & Bar and a post-show pint at the Understudy Pub, there is a place to eat and drink for everyone. There are also several bars at the theatre, one on each level of the auditorium.
Does the Olivier Theatre have a cloakroom?
A free cloakroom service is available for ticket-holders, from 90 minutes before the show starts. Any bags or rucksacks larger than 30 x 30 x 15cm must be left in the cloakroom and cannot be taken into the auditorium. Only folding bikes can be stored in the cloakroom. If you have a non-folding bike, there are many bike racks near the theatre - the Transport for London has a cycle parking map tool. The theatre requests that patrons avoid bringing large bags or suitcases to the theatre.
Is the Olivier Theatre air-conditioned?
Yes, the entire venue complex is fully air-conditioned, including the theatre's auditorium.
Where should I eat near the Olivier Theatre?
The venue is located on the Southbank where there are plenty of restaurants and pubs to take advantage of a pre-show dinner. Chain restaurants including Wahaca, Wagamama and Pret a Manger are a five-minute walk away. If you're visiting on a Friday - Sunday, head to the Southbank Food Market for some delicious street food, also just a five-minute walk away.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the Olivier Theatre?
For a five star hotel experience, try the Autograph Collection's Bankside Hotel, which is just a 10-minute walk away. This boutique hotel has plenty of stellar amenities and is perfectly located for exploring London's landmarks. For a more budget option, take a look at the Premier Inn London County Hall hotel, which is a five-minute walk from the theatre.
How do I contact the box office?
The box office can be contacted by calling 020 7452 3000 from 10am on performance days.
